VSDB Goalball team to play at BC

On Tuesday, Dec. 6, the goalball team from Virginia School for the Deaf and Blind will play a goalball exhibition game at halftime of the Bridgewater College women’s basketball game in Nininger Hall. Bridgewater College students in the Adapted Physical Education and Recreation class are hosting the event.

Goalball is a sport for the blind and visually impaired and is a popular event in the Paralympic Games.

Goalball is a three-a-side indoor court game developed for players who have vision impairments. The game is played with a ball that has an internal bell that allows the players to locate the ball during play. The object is to score a goal by rolling the ball so that it crosses the goal line of the opposing team. Players defend the goal by throwing their bodies to the floor in a prone position to stop the ball.

All players wear goggles that block out all vision and make it possible for everyone to play equally. The lines on the court and the players’ orientation marks must be tactile enabling players to feel them with their fingers or feet. String covered with tape is used for the court makings and position spots allowing players to determine where they are on the court.

Bridgewater College hosts Southern Virginia in Tuesday night’s non-conference contest. Game time is 7 p.m. Tuesday is also Toy Drive Night sponsored by the women’s basketball team. Fans can bring a new, unwrapped toy to the Southern Virginia game and receive free admission.